A seemingly simple game that unfolds into a deeply emotional experience. The First Tree proves that even a “One Man Team” can create something capable of touching players’ hearts through narrative, visuals, and sound.
The Fox’s Journey: A Story That Touches the Soul
The narrative of The First Tree is surprisingly moving. The game intertwines the story of a fox searching for its family with the developer’s personal narrative, exploring themes such as loss, regret, and reconciliation. Each scene is carefully crafted to evoke emotion without the need for complex dialogue or elaborate mechanics. The way the narrator’s story intersects with the fox’s adventure creates a unique connection between player and character, making the experience both memorable and intimate.
The game challenges expectations of what single-developer titles can achieve. The simplicity of the narrative allows each moment to be fully absorbed and reflected upon, free of distractions. It feels personal and sincere, leaving a lasting impression far beyond the duration of the adventure itself.
Enchanting Landscapes: Visuals and Environment
The visuals in The First Tree are beautiful and poetic. Natural settings—forests, mountains, and rivers—are colorful and atmospheric, creating a sense of calm and immersion. Each area of the game conveys emotion, reinforcing the narrative and encouraging free exploration.
Additionally, the environmental design helps tell the story without relying on text or dialogue. The choice of colors, sunlight filtering through the trees, and the fine details of the surroundings reinforce feelings of melancholy and hope, making every moment aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant.
Notes of Silence: Soundtrack and Atmosphere
The soundtrack of The First Tree plays a central role in shaping the atmosphere. Gentle, contemplative music, paired with natural environmental sounds, makes the experience almost meditative. Every note and sound effect helps connect the player to the fox’s journey, amplifying the emotions conveyed by the narrative and visuals.
Silence is also used thoughtfully. Moments without music allow players to focus on the landscape and small details, enhancing introspection and emotional connection to the story. The combination of music, sound effects, and visual environment results in a complete sensory experience.
Exploring Freely: Simple and Effective Gameplay
The gameplay of The First Tree is minimalist but well-suited to the game’s purpose. Players control the fox and freely explore the open world, without enemies or obstacles that interrupt the experience. While movements can sometimes feel slightly awkward, this simplicity allows players to focus entirely on the narrative and exploration, making the game accessible and relaxing.
Every interaction with the environment reinforces the story and connection to the fox. The challenge lies not in difficulty, but in discovery and the emotional interpretation of each scene. This design prioritizes experience and feeling over complex mechanics, perfectly fitting this type of adventure.
Emotional Impact: A Memorable Experience
The First Tree is a game that defies expectations and demonstrates that simple titles can have profound impact. The combination of narrative, visuals, and sound creates an experience that lingers in the player’s memory, addressing universal themes in a light yet meaningful way.
Even without complex mechanics or ultra-realistic graphics, the game leaves a lasting mark. It’s a perfect adventure for those seeking something contemplative, emotional, and different, showing that the power of a well-told story can surpass any technical limitations.
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch
Final Score: 6.5/10